Congressman Mark Meadows (R-NC) spoke about concerns of mountain veterans, the Russia investigation and a pastor from Black Mountain who remains imprisoned in Turkey a day after winning the Republican nomination for his district in the primary election. (Image credit: WLOS)

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) —

Congressman Mark Meadows (R-NC) spoke about concerns of mountain veterans, the Russia investigation and a pastor from Black Mountain who remains imprisoned in Turkey a day after winning the Republican nomination for his district in the primary election.

"I'm here to tell you that privatization of the VA is not something that I will support, ever," Meadows told News 13. "In doing that I made a promise to our veterans and I want them to hear that here today."

Meadows says the VA system in Asheville services the mountains very well, and will be supported and protected.

Pastor Andrew Brunson

Rep. Meadows was one of 154 lawmakers who sent a letter to the president of Turkey last week, urging the release of Pastor Andrew Brunson, from Black Mountain. Brunson has been imprisoned there for the last year, accused of aiding terror groups. He faces 35 years in prison if convicted.

"It's an issue that well over a year ago was brought to my attention," Meadows said. "I've talked to the Turkish government, I've talked to the Turkish ambassador, and even people within the administration to just say that we need to bring pressure to bring this U.S. citizen home."

Russia investigation

According to Rep. Meadows, the investigation into the potential collusion with Russia by the Trump administration has long-run it's course.

"Either bring charges now or draw this to a close," he said.

News 13 asked the Congressman if special counsel Robert Mueller should be allowed to continue his investigation.

"Just like with any investigation, there is a certain time frame that really has expired," he said. "We've investigated this over a year and a half, there's no evidence of collusion. Certainly there's evidence of Russian intervention in our election process. We've actually co-sponsored legislation to deal with that going forward. But in terms of this president and collusion, there's no evidence to support that. So it's time that he [Robert Mueller] wraps that up and brings that to a close."